Lines for the Geologist on his Mother's Passing

LINES FOR THE GEOLOGIST

ON HIS MOTHER'S PASSING

            for Don Coberly

What does it mean, geologist,

one who studies attachment to the earth,

when his mother dies? How does one

pick up the mother, and holding her in his hands,

asking for revelation, bring the word down?

Insight may be it, but it doesn't serve.

(Does every word sink like a stone?)

If you could ask her for one thing.

Even then, she'll tell you

she told you that, and more than once.

She doesn't have to tell you

she's in your hands, how your love

at once surrounds the world.

Jim

May Day, 2020